Map of the Territory of Bologna Antique world maps HQ

The work presents a sprawling vista, ostensibly a cartographic representation of a territory centered around a densely populated urban core. The composition is dominated by muted greens and browns, suggesting fields, forests, and undulating terrain. A network of thin lines traces roads and waterways, connecting the central city to smaller settlements scattered across the landscape. These settlements appear as clusters of red-roofed buildings, diminishing in size and frequency as one moves outward from the urban hub.
The artist employed a birds-eye perspective, allowing for a comprehensive view of the region. The level of detail is remarkable; individual fields are delineated, and topographic features – such as hills and valleys – are subtly indicated through variations in color and shading. This meticulous rendering suggests an intent to convey not just geographical information but also a sense of order and control over the depicted area.
The central city itself appears as a complex aggregation of structures, with a discernible pattern of streets and buildings radiating outward from a focal point. The density of construction implies significant economic or political importance. Surrounding this urban center are patches of cultivated land interspersed with wooded areas, indicating an agricultural economy supporting the population.
A notable feature is the presence of what appear to be fortified structures – small rectangular blocks – positioned at strategic points along the roads and waterways. These likely represent military outposts or defensive positions, hinting at a need for protection from external threats. The placement suggests a deliberate strategy for controlling movement and access within the territory.
The overall impression is one of a carefully managed landscape, where human activity has been integrated into the natural environment. The painting transcends a simple topographical survey; it conveys a sense of dominion over the land, reflecting perhaps the ambitions or concerns of those who commissioned its creation. The muted palette and detailed rendering contribute to an atmosphere of quiet authority and meticulous observation.